Dubrovnik to Bled Itinerary

See how Dubrovnik bursts with history, from steep, cobbled streets and stunning architecture to the enveloping city walls. Uncover hidden treasures in the Old Town or perhaps take a boat ride to the island of Lokrum for a spot of swimming, where it is said that Richard the Lionheart was once shipwrecked. If time permits, get a snapshot of Croatian history at one of many museums or take a quiet moment inside an old cathedral. After a day of exploring, walk up Srd Hill for spectacular views of the city and the Dalmatian coastline.

Travel to Korcula by ferry or bus and stay in simple accommodation with generous local hosts. Take in the serene forest landscape dotted with tranquil inlets and character-filled vineyards, and a place where residents show immense pride in their island home. Try traditional delicacies while relaxing in a local restaurant and taste some travarica, a grappa-like drink, before partaking in the island's famous cakes for dessert. In free time, pay a visit to the Marco Polo Tower, go shopping, swimming or just soak up the ambience.

Experience the beauty of Hvar - the queen of the Dalmatian Islands. Wander past wonderfully preserved Renaissance facades and vast fields of lavender and rosemary. Enjoy some quality time on the beach or chill out over a few cocktails in a waterside bar.

Arrive in Split, the soul of Dalmatia and the site of Emperor Diocletian's well-preserved palace. This vibrant, World Heritage-listed town is a mixture of a golden past and present-day delights, and is easily explored on foot. While here, see the original and fantastically preserved basements under the city as well as the Cathedral in Diocletian's Peristyle and Jupiter's Temple.

Head north into the vivid green landscape of Plitvice Lakes National Park, hemmed in by striking mountains and boasting some of the most postcard-perfect scenery in Croatia. Then swap the ethereal beauty of Plitvice for the stark karst ridges of Pag Island. Embrace the heady flavours of Pag cheese, eaten with sliced black olives.

Conjure scenes of battle on a visit to Pula’s Roman Amphitheatre, relish a taste of nostalgia in the Old Town and perhaps encounter treasured relics in the Archaelogical Museum. To truly appreciate the enduring nature of this town, follow the Roman walls on the eastern boundary, passing through the Triumphal Arch of Sergius.

Cross the border into Slovenia and travel into the Julian Alps. Take in the mountainous backdrop, picturesque lake and impressive cliff-top fortress, which all combine to make Bled such a wonderful place to visit. Perhaps cycle around Lake Bled's shoreline, row a boat out to the island or hike through the exceptional Vintgar Gorge. Then, why not celebrate the end of a remarkable journey with a final group meal.